Laminated ginkgo leaves can serve as both bookmarks and phone case decorations.

Who would have thought that ginkgo leaves could be made into a bouquet?

In November, after their golden display in October, ginkgo leaves begin falling in Kunming, carpeting the streets in gold. This natural spectacle has not only created beautiful scenery but also sparked a unique business opportunity - selling ginkgo leaves. The fallen leaves that once crunched beneath our feet have become popular items for sale online.

The "romantic economy" of a fallen leaf

On second-hand trading platforms like Goofish(Xianyu), searching for "ginkgo leaves" reveals numerous sellers. Prices range from a few yuan to several dozen, with some selling by piece, others by weight. Some even combine them with other materials to create handmade products for sale.

Most sellers come from regions with ginkgo trees, such as Kunming, Suzhou, Dandong, and Linyi. They collect, clean, press, and dry the leaves before packaging them for shipment.

Who buys these fallen leaves? A buyer who goes by "Lili" online shared her story. A young office worker, Lili enjoys crafting and was inspired by seeing various creative items made from ginkgo leaves online. "Ginkgo leaves are naturally beautiful, like tiny golden fans," Lili explains with a smile. She plans to make bookmarks and decorative pictures as gifts for friends and family.

Lili's reason for purchasing is not unique. Social media platforms are flooded with tutorials on crafting with ginkgo leaves, attracting significant likes and comments. Some bloggers create bouquets combining ginkgo leaves with dried flowers and ribbons, while others make bookmarks with poetic inscriptions or teach how to craft mini ginkgo trees and wreaths, bringing autumn's romantic atmosphere indoors. These tutorials not only spark people's creativity but also indirectly boost the sales of ginkgo leaves.

Buying ginkgo leaves: An emotional purchase

Why has this seemingly insignificant "fallen leaves business" become so popular? Mr. Wang, a seller from Kunming, collects large quantities of ginkgo leaves each autumn. "Initially, it was just for fun, but it turned out to be quite popular," he says. "Many people buy ginkgo leaves for their aesthetic appeal and symbolism, similar to buying flowers - it's an emotional purchase."

Mr. Wang explains, "Just like roses can be preserved as eternal flowers, ginkgo leaves can be preserved for longer periods through special treatment methods." He began creating derivative products like ginkgo leaf bookmarks and picture frames to add value and extend the sales season.

When autumn winds blow and golden leaves carpet the ground, Mr. Wang is at his happiest. "Every time I walk on the small path covered with fallen leaves, I feel incredibly excited and satisfied. Hand-picking those uniquely perfect ginkgo leaves brings me joy." It is this love and pursuit of life that allows Mr. Wang to walk further on this seemingly insignificant path, bringing joy and warmth to countless people who love beautiful things.

Reporter's Notes

The Value of a Fallen Leaf

Throughout my interviews, I kept wondering why a simple ginkgo leaf could generate such interest. Perhaps it carries people's fond memories of autumn, symbolizes romance and hope, or represents a return to a simpler way of life. Whatever the reason, these leaves' value has far exceeded their physical properties, inspiring people's reflection on nature, life, and emotions.

We should cherish these gifts from nature, appreciating their beauty rather than solely pursuing economic benefits. A fallen leaf can be a piece of art, a gift, or a memory. Its value is defined by us.

Places to admire ginkgo trees in Kunming:

Cuihu Park

Features: the ginkgo trees in Cuihu Park are tall and ancient. Historic pavilions like Biyi Pavilion, along with the ginkgo trees, create a magnificent autumn scene.

Daguan Park

Features: A vast grove of ginkgo trees grows by Caohai Lake. The long walkway, lined with ginkgo trees, transforms into a golden passageway when bathed in sunlight.

Wenlin Street

Features: A new popular photo spot known for its golden ginkgo views. The dense and lush ginkgo trees on both sides of the street attract residents and tourists for weekend strolls.

Jinguang Road

Features: Although the ginkgo trees were planted not long ago, they are already stunningly beautiful. A hundred-meter-long ginkgo avenue glitters in the sunlight, with dappled shadows on the sidewalk, creating a peaceful and beautiful scene.

Huguo Road

Features: Located in the city center, surrounded by high-rises, the ginkgo trees add autumn colors to the urban environment. Although the road is not long, the ginkgo trees make the surroundings soft and natural.

Kunming Botanical Garden

Features: The garden has an avenue lined with ginkgo and maple trees. In late autumn and early winter, the falling yellow leaves and fiery red maples create a breathtaking scene.

Black Dragon Pool Park

Features: Though fewer in number, the ginkgo trees near Longquan Platform are particularly beautiful, with one already turned golden. The Penjing Garden also has a few ginkgo trees, offering a pleasant view.

Click here to view the Chinese report

(Editors: Jennifer, Amy)